Decadent Chocolate Berry Layer Cake – The Ultimate Celebration Dessert

If there’s one dessert that never fails to wow a crowd, it’s this Strawberry & Chocolate Layer Cake. With rich chocolate cake layers, fluffy whipped cocoa frosting, a fresh fruit filling, and a silky ganache drip, this showstopping treat is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or whenever you’re craving something truly indulgent.

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Why I Love This Cake

This recipe hits all the right notes—moist chocolate sponge, creamy frosting, juicy berries, and a touch of elegance from the ganache. It’s surprisingly easy to assemble and tastes even better than it looks. The fresh fruit cuts through the richness, giving it a balanced flavor that’s not too heavy.

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Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2½ tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1½ cups buttermilk
• 1 cup hot coffee or hot water

For the Chocolate Whipped Frosting:

• 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache Drip:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream

For Filling and Garnish:

• 2–3 cups fresh strawberries, halved
• 1–2 cups fresh blueberries
• Optional: chocolate curls or sprinkles

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Ingredient Swaps & Notes

• Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor but can be swapped for hot water if you prefer a milder taste.
• Buttermilk substitute: Use 1½ tbsp lemon juice or vinegar in 1½ cups milk, let sit 5 minutes.
• You can use raspberries or blackberries if strawberries aren’t in season.
• The whipped frosting is light and mousse-like; for a denser texture, use cream cheese or buttercream.

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How to Make the Cake

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake Layers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Add buttermilk.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, then mix in the hot coffee.
5. Divide batter evenly among pans. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool completely on wire racks before frosting.

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cocoa Frosting

1. In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla.
2. Whip until stiff peaks form. Keep cold until ready to use.

Step 3: Prepare the Ganache

1. Heat cream in the microwave or stovetop until steaming (do not boil).
2. Pour over chocolate chips, let sit 1 minute, then stir until smooth.
3. Let cool slightly before drizzling.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving stand.
2. Spread a generous layer of whipped frosting and top with chopped berries.
3. Repeat with second and third layers.
4. Frost the top and sides. Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle ganache over edges.
5. Decorate the top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and optional chocolate curls.

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Tips for Success

• Chill the cake before slicing for clean, bakery-style layers.
• Use a serrated knife for smooth cuts through the berries and frosting.
• Don’t skip the hot coffee—it brings out the chocolate depth without tasting like coffee.

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Serving Suggestions & Pairings

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of Classic Margarita for a festive twist.
• Pair with coffee, espresso, or even a fruity Strawberry Mojito for brunch-style dessert hour.

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Storage Tips

• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• For longer storage, freeze individual slices tightly wrapped for up to 1 month.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

• These Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Are My Favorite Fall Treat
• These Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies Are My Favorite Way to Bake Up Instant Joy
• This Grasshopper Pie Is My Favorite No-Bake Dessert With a Mint Chocolate Twist
• This Edible Cookie Dough Is My Favorite No-Bake Treat for Late Night Cravings
• These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites Are My Favorite Little Treat to Bake Anytime

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Final Thoughts

This Strawberry & Chocolate Layer Cake is an absolute crowd-pleaser and surprisingly beginner-friendly. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or just to spoil yourself a bit, this cake never disappoints. Try it out, and don’t forget to leave a comment or tag @chefmaniac if you bake it!